Holland America and Seabourn have announced updates to their health and safety protocols regarding pre-cruise testing and vaccination requirements, effective September 6, 2022.

Vaccinated passengers on most voyages of up to 15 nights will no longer need to take a test before sailing. Also, unvaccinated guests will now be welcome on board, as long as they provide a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of the departure date.

These new rules do not apply to itineraries to destinations that still require testing and/or vaccination, such as Canada, Australia, and Greece.

On cruises of 16 nights or longer, plus full Panama Canal transits, ocean voyages, and certain "remote voyages," guests five years of age and older must continue to be vaccinated or request a vaccine exemption. They must also provide a negative medically supervised COVID-19 test result taken within three days of boarding.

"Our guests are excited to return to cruising, and these changes will make it easier for more guests to explore the world in a safe and enjoyable environment," said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. "The new, simplified protocols recognize the evolving nature of COVID-19 while ensuring we protect the health of our guests, team members, and the communities we visit."

Passengers booked on longer journeys will be provided with information on special protocols for their journey. Guests can continue to submit documents electronically prior to boarding for a faster check-in process.

In other news today, Disney Cruise Line has announced that children age’s five to 11 no longer need a vaccine for sailing. Guests 12 and older still have the vaccine mandate, but no booster is required.

Last week, a number of cruise lines also adjusted their testing and/or vaccination protocols, including Norwegian, Carnival, Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity.